The dancer, who is in a relationship with his former Strictly partner Stacey Dooley, wrote: “The past 7 years have been some of the most wonderful years of my life.

“I am grateful to the BBC and Strictly Come Dancing for giving me the opportunity to have been a part of something truly special.

“Since first being called ‘Kevin From Grimsby’ by Sir Bruce Forsyth in 2013 I have experienced the highs of 5 finals, winning a Guinness World record on It Takes Two, the Strictly Arena tour glitterball and then the ultimate of winning the 2018 series with Stacey Dooley.

Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton leave BBC Broadcasting House in London after appearing on the Chris Evans radio show.

“After finishing last series with the Children In Need trophy and the Christmas Special I want to leave on a high and have therefore decided the time has come to move on and focus on other areas of my life and career.”

Clifton thanked his fellow pros and celebrity partners for “inspiring me every day” and said the whole team behind the scenes had made Strictly the “loveliest show to work for”.

“Thank you to anyone who has ever voted for me and my partners. It means the world.”

Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse was among those to comment, writing on Instagram: “Good luck for your new journey!! Your presence is so unique! You were always 100% committed! All the best and you will be definitely be missed.”